Multiple's stroke initiative sees results

An initiative launched by Vision Express, which provides patients with free blood pressure checks in practice to highlight its increased risk associated to stroke, has seen positive results.

Introduced in selected practices of the multiple across the UK, more than 300 people have already taken advantage of the free tests. The results have seen one in three patients referred to their GP after "worrying" readings.

Vision Express has released the results of the Know Your Blood Pressure initiative to coincide with the Stroke Association's 'Make May Purple' awareness drive.

With the results demonstrating a "concerning" lack of awareness of the dangers of high blood pressure, the multiple confirmed that the scheme was be rolled out further during 2016.

Vision Express teamed up with the Stroke Association in a bid to educate its patients about stroke and its impact on sight. Up to 60% of stroke survivors will experience visual problems, yet one in three stroke survivors are not warned that sight loss could be a problem or that treatment and support is available.

Latest research from the Stroke Association reports that over half of all UK men (60%) are unaware of their blood pressure, while men are 25% more likely to have a stroke at a younger age compared to women.

As a result, the charity is calling on the public to be more aware of the risk of stroke.

Chief executive of the Stroke Association, John Barrick, said: “High blood pressure is a silent killer, but a simple and painless test could prevent a devastating stroke. Too few people are aware just how serious stroke is, or that up to 80% of strokes could be prevented. It’s vital that everyone knows what their blood pressure should be and gets it checked.”

Senior PR manager at Vision Express, Jenny Wye, commented: “We’re extremely proud to be working with the Stroke Association. Our efforts in delivering Know Your Blood Pressure events in stores and company-wide initiatives have engaged customers, employees and the general public.

“We are committed to continuing to raise awareness of the help and treatment available for stroke survivors, and lending our support to the important work the Stroke Association does.”